Corfu & Albania Explorer
Discover ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture on this 7-day Greek & Albanian hiking adventure!
Marvel at Albania’s famous Blue Eye, take in the aquamarine waters of Gjipe Beach, explore the imperial gardens of Corfu’s Achilleion Palace, and uncover the historic Corfu Fortress.
Our small-group tours venture off the beaten track, led by experienced hiking guides, ensuring every step brings hidden gems, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences.
Itinerary
SUMMARY
The Corfu & Albania Explorer invites you on a 7-day hiking journey through ancient history, untamed landscapes, and shimmering coastlines.
Begin in the ancient city of Corfu, uncovering its rich history and culture, before crossing into Albania to marvel at natural wonders, hike through centuries of history and take in aquamarine beaches.
The route loops back to Corfu, making it simple and convenient to fly in and out.
Daily Hike Overview:
- Average Daily Distance: 4.8km
- Average Daily Hike Time: 2hrs
Itinerary Highlights:
- Marvel at Albania’s famous Blue Eye
- Take in the aquamarine waters of Gjipe Beach
- Explore the imperial gardens of Corfu’s Achilleion Palace
- Uncover the historic Corfu Fortress
SUMMARY
Welcome to Corfu!
Settle into your hotel before meeting your Tour Manager and fellow travellers at 3pm for a Welcome Meeting.
This afternoon, we’ll wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu on an Orientation Walk, weaving through cobblestoned streets lined with charming cafés, ornate churches, and historic landmarks.
As evening falls, share your first Greek feast together at a traditional taverna - the perfect setting to get to know your travel companions.
Inclusions
Corfu Orientation Walk
SUMMARY
Rise and shine! This morning, we’ll transfer to Old Perithia, the oldest continuously inhabited village in Corfu. Wander through picturesque Venetian architecture and explore this 14th-century village, soaking in stunning mountain views on our morning hike.
After working up an appetite, we’ll stop at a local taverna for a delicious lunch - the perfect chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, before returning to our hotel in Corfu.
Spend the afternoon meandering the twisting alleyways, browsing boutique shops, and exploring the town at your own pace.
This evening, you have the option to stroll through the beautifully manicured imperial gardens of the Achilleion Palace before enjoying a special Greek dinner.
Day 2 Hike Overview
- Distance: 7km
- Time: 2.45hrs
- Ascent: 232m
Optional Activity
Greek Dinner
SUMMARY
Begin the day with breakfast at your hotel before we depart Corfu and cross by ferry to Sarandë, marking the start of our Albanian adventure.
Our first stop is the UNESCO-listed Butrint Archaeological Park; a treasure trove of ancient ruins set among lush wetlands, rich flora, and diverse fauna. As we wander through this open-air time capsule, you’ll encounter remnants of Greek, Roman, and Ottoman civilizations, each layer telling its own story.
By early afternoon, we continue to the charming seaside town of Ksamil. Here, the afternoon is yours to enjoy - take in the aquamarine waters, stretch out on the soft sands, or simply relax at your own pace.
As the sun sets, we’ll come together once more for a group dinner, sampling traditional Albanian dishes in the company of new friends.
Day 3 Hike Overview
- Distance: 2.5km
- Time: 1.5hrs
- Ascent: 43m
Inclusions
Entrance fee to Butrint Archaeological Park
SUMMARY
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Blue Eye Park, a natural wonder known for its vivid turquoise spring, lush greenery and crystal-clear waters.
The famous Blue Eye is one of Albania’s most celebrated attractions, admired for its striking depth, icy-cool clarity, and almost otherworldly beauty.
After a morning of exploring, we’ll continue to the laid-back coastal town of Himarë, famed for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
This afternoon, we’ll set out on a sunset hike to Himarë Castle. Perched 240 meters above Himarë, the trail winds past ancient ruins and rewards us with sweeping views over the Ionian Sea, all enjoyed whilst taking in the glow of a spectacular Albanian sunset.
With appetites worked up from the day’s adventures, we’ll round off the evening with a group dinner.
Day 4 Hike Overview
- Distance: 5km
- Time: 1.45hrs
- Ascent: 120m
Incusions
Entry to Blue Eye Park
SUMMARY
Rise and shine! This morning, we set off early for our transfer to the starting point of the Gjipe Canyon - a rugged valley carved into the Albanian Riviera, renowned for its panoramic views and rich biodiversity. Our hike takes us through its dramatic, narrow cliffs, leading to the calm blue waters of Gjipe Beach.
We’ll spend the rest of the morning unwinding by the sea, soaking up the aquamarine beauty of Albania’s turquoise coastline.
After a leisurely lunch at the beach, we’ll hike back through the canyon, where a transfer will be waiting to return us to our hotel in Himarë.
In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a seaside dinner and enjoy the charm of this coastal town under the night sky.
Day 5 Hike Overview
- Distance: 5km
- Time: 3hrs
- Ascent: 270m
Inclusions
Seaside Group Dinner
SUMMARY
This morning, we’ll transfer to Sarandë to catch the ferry back to Corfu.
On arrival, we’ll head to our hotel to freshen up before making our way into Corfu Town for an afternoon of exploration at your own pace.
You may wish to visit the iconic Corfu Fortress, a striking Venetian stronghold that once played a vital role in the island’s defence. Accessible via a 60-metre bridge stretching across the sea, the fortress invites history lovers to wander through its viewpoints, museums, and exhibitions while soaking up sweeping views of the coastline.
Tonight, we’ll come together for our final group dinner, celebrating the journey we’ve shared and the charm of this enchanting city.
Enjoy breakfast and a leisurely morning at the hotel before checking out and bidding farewell to your fellow travellers.
Inclusions
Experienced Hike Guide Explore with a local, experienced guide who leads each day's hiking itinerary
Breakfast Daily Continental breakfast is included daily
Ferry Tickets We’ll organise your ferries for you
6 Nights Accommodation 6 nights accommodation in boutique hotels (twin-share)
Traditional Albanian Dinner Dinner at a local Albanian restaurant
Port Transfers We'll organise transfers between the port and your hotel
Hike Transfers Selected transfers to/from the start/end hiking locations
Daily Hikes Explore on foot with guided hikes
Who Are Your Guides?
Your experienced Guide has hiked these trails many times before and works closely with us to curate the perfect itinerary for our guests! Our Guides are passionate about the flora, fauna, history and culture of Greece and Albania, showing travellers the best trails, peaks and views this incredible country has to offer.
Your Guide is First Aid trained and able to respond in the unlikely event of a medical situation arising whilst hiking.
Guides are Health and Safety trained, following guidelines from the British Safety Council. Your Guide is well-versed in how to look after guests during their tour!
Your Guide is local and knowledgeable in the flora, fauna, culture and history of each destination!
Your Accommodation
Twin-share rooms are included on all Corfu & Albania Explorer Tours, providing a relaxing and welcoming space to retreat to after an invigorating day of exploring! Rooms are air-conditioned and include a private ensuite.
Each unique hotel is family-run, offering unique hospitality and a relaxing atmosphere. There are various spaces to relax and unwind at each hotel.
FAQ's
The Corfu & Albania Explorer is a small-group tour, exploring the best of Corfu and Albania on a 7-day hiking adventure. This tour is made for travellers who are looking to relax, explore and socialise on their vacation.
The tour officially starts at 3 pm in Corfu, with the welcome meeting taking place in the lobby of your hotel. The tour ends on day 7 in Corfu when you check out of your accommodation.
We recommend you have a reasonable level of fitness to participate in our Corfu & Albania Explorer. Each day’s itinerary brings a different challenge, and your guide will cater to your group’s interests and abilities. If you don’t feel up to hiking or feel a particular day may be too strenuous, you’re welcome to spend the day relaxing at the hotel or exploring a nearby town.
You will stay in twin-share ensuite rooms on the Corfu & Albania Explorer. Each boutique, family-run hotel offers unique facilities, with some hotels providing pools, on-site bars and gardens.
Please note: images are representative of the accommodation provided at each destination. Accommodation of equal standard will be provided at each location.
Corfu has an international airport that many low-cost European and International carriers service. Flights are not included in our tours.
A basic continental breakfast is included every morning on your Corfu & Albania Explorer. On days when you depart the hotel early, a breakfast box will be provided so that you can have breakfast on the go! A traditional Albanian dinner is also included. All other lunches, dinners and snacks are not included. This is another way we save on costs by allowing you to try authentic local cuisine and spend as much or as little as you like on food and drinks. Your friendly Guide can recommend places to eat and drink throughout the tour!
This tour is suited to young professionals and young-at-heart travellers. The Corfu & Albania Explorer is an 18+ tour and attracts travellers between the ages of 20 and 60.
Our Corfu & Albania Explorer is not a cruise. You will travel between the islands via public ferries and stay in boutique hotels at each destination.
The official currency in Greece is the Euro, while in Albania it is the Lek. Your Tour Manager will be happy to help you locate ATMs to withdraw cash.
We recommend a starting budget of €60 per person, per day for meals. If you plan to join extra excursions or dine at higher-end restaurants, consider allocating additional funds.
Yes! You'll have time to explore local culture, take a stroll, or get up to whatever you desire to make the most out of your experience. Your Tour Manager will advise you each day as to when free time is available.
Yes, we are! Sail Croatia owns and operates Island Hopping. Sail Croatia has been operating since 2003 and today is one of the biggest and most respected tour operators in Europe.
Prices are based on two people sharing; however, for those who are in odd-numbered groups or travelling solo, you will share your room with another like-minded traveller of the same sex.